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Tuberculosis (say: too-burr-cue-low-sis), or TB, is a disease caused by a bacteria (or germ) called Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
The bacteria usually attack the lungs. But, TB bacteria can attack any part of the body such as the kidney, spine, and brain.
If not treated properly, TB disease can be fatal.
Active TB disease: TB bacteria become active if the immune system your body's defense mechanism against infection can't
stop them from growing. The active bacteria begin to multiply in the body and cause active TB disease. The bacteria attack
the body and destroy tissue.
Latent (dormant or inactive)TB infection: In most people who breathe in TB bacteria and become infected, the body is able
to fight the bacteria to stop them from growing. In this case, the person does not feel sick, has no symptoms, and cannot
spread TB to others. The bacteria are inactive, but they remain alive in the body and some people may become sick with it
later if their immune systems become weak. This can occur as a result of substance abuse, diabetes, or other certain medical
conditions.
How is TB spread?
ALWAYS COVER YOUR MOUTH WHEN YOU COUGH OR SNEEZE!!!!!!!!
TB is spread through
the air from one person to another. All you have to do to get TB is breathe! The bacteria are put into the air when a person
with active TB disease of the lungs or throat coughs or sneezes. People nearby may breathe in these bacteria and become infected.
When a person breathes in TB
bacteria, the bacteria can settle in the lungs and begin to grow. From there, they can move through the blood to other parts
of the body, such as the kidney, spine, and brain.
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